In The Middle-Divorce Healing For Catholic Women

In this week's show, I am kicking off a series on the Sacraments of the Catholic Church. It is easy to take them for granted and miss the gifts each one offers. To get started I am diving into the sacrament of Baptism with Father Seth Reed. Father shares insights that remind us of our core identity as God’s beloved daughters, an identity that was first established at our own Baptism. It’s a chance to revisit that moment when we were claimed by God, giving us a strong spiritual anchor to hold onto during all the ups and downs that come with midlife.

For those of us who are mothers, there's a lot to reflect on. Baptism is a beautiful reminder that our children, no matter how old they get, are a gift from God. We’ve been given the responsibility to nurture and guide them in their faith, and this episode is a gentle nudge to reconnect with that calling. Plus, there’s comfort in hearing a priest talk about sensitive topics, like what happens to unbaptized infants, reassuring us of God's endless mercy and love. This is especially comforting if you’ve ever carried any worries or grief in this area.

The conversation also shines a light on the power of grace, something that’s easy to forget in the busyness of midlife. We sometimes feel weighed down by past mistakes, regrets, or questions about where our faith stands now. But Baptism isn't just a one-time event—it’s the start of a lifelong journey with God’s grace. That grace continues to work in us, even now, in the thick of family life, career shifts, and everything in between. It’s a reminder that we are always being renewed, no matter where we are in life.

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

 Today, we’re I'm diving deep into the heart of discipleship with Jessika Tate. Discipleship isn’t about having it all together—it's about guiding others, especially our families, toward a life that mirrors Christ. True discipleship involves forming ourselves in the character of Jesus, walking in His integrity, and understanding that we're all on a journey. As women who juggle so much, we might feel unworthy or ill-equipped to disciple others. Yet, Jesus calls each of us, with all our imperfections, to be His hands and feet.

The truth is, many around us are hungry—not just for food, but for authentic connection and truth. They don’t need us to have all the answers or a seminary degree; they need someone who is willing to be real, to open up the Word with them, and to share life’s moments—good and bad. Discipleship isn’t reserved for the perfect or the theological elite; it’s for those who, like us, are willing to be honest about life’s struggles and joys. Our family members, friends, and community simply need someone who will walk with them, share a meal, and pray with them. They need to see us living our faith in everyday life, inviting them to do the same, just as Jesus did with His disciples.

In this world of social media filters and polished facades, discipleship calls us to something radical: vulnerability. It’s about letting others see us in our mess, showing them how we turn to Christ in our struggles, and inviting them to witness how we find peace and hope. It’s also about letting them see our repentance when we fall short and showing them the mercy of God in our lives. So, as Catholic moms in midlife, let’s embrace the call to discipleship—not by appearing perfect, but by walking with others in the highs and lows, modeling a life rooted in Christ’s love and truth. This is the journey we are on together, a journey where we help one another carry our crosses and, in doing so, come closer to the heart of Christ. 

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

In this week's show, I’m honored to bring you a deeply personal and moving conversation with Kay Dodd, who shares her journey through motherhood when life’s curveballs test our faith and strength in ways we never imagined. Kay opens up about her experience discovering her daughter Hannah’s Down syndrome diagnosis, and how she navigated the waves of grief, fear, and ultimately profound gratitude. She takes us along on the journey from her initial heartbreak to the miraculous moment of holding her daughter, realizing that Down syndrome didn’t define her, but instead, added new layers of love and faith to their family. I think so many of us, especially in midlife, will relate to her journey of letting go of expectations and trusting God’s hand in life’s unexpected paths.

Kay’s story reminds us that sometimes God’s greatest gifts come wrapped in situations we don’t expect and even initially resist. Facing this challenge, Kay instead embraced the faith that her daughter’s life was filled with purpose and beauty as designed by God. It’s powerful to hear how Hannah grew into the little “shining light” in her family, teaching all of them — and now, us — the beauty of childlike faith and pure joy.

This episode is not just about Kay’s journey but a call to each of us who have been shaken by life’s unexpected changes. As Catholic mothers, many of us have experienced times when we planned for one outcome, only to find life leading us somewhere else. It’s in these moments of surrender, as Kay so beautifully illustrates, that our faith and trust in God become the anchors that hold us. I hope you’ll join me in this episode to hear how embracing life’s surprises with faith and courage can transform our hearts and bring us closer to God’s true gifts.

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

In this week's show I talk with Father David Dodd a native of Nashville.  He shares how to reignite your faith journey and embrace the Holy Spirit in a deeper, more personal way. We each share our own story of how the Holy Spirit has moved in our lives—especially during those pivotal moments of change and uncertainty. Midlife women, often feel the weight of balancing so much, from family to career, all while trying to stay grounded in their faith. But the Holy Spirit wants to be the source of strength, renewal, and peace, guiding you through each season of life.

We talk about those “holy goosebumps” moments when God’s presence feels undeniable, and how surrendering to the Holy Spirit can lead to a transformative relationship with Jesus that’s more fulfilling than you could ever imagine. Whether you’re longing for a deeper connection with God or just trying to keep your faith alive in the busyness of everyday life, this episode is for you.

Let’s journey together and discover how the Holy Spirit can breathe new life into your faith, your family, and your purpose. Don’t miss this chance to be encouraged and empowered as a Catholic woman walking through midlife with grace and the fire of the Spirit.

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

In this episode of Catholic Moms in the Middle, I have the honor of hosting Sister Faustina Maria Pia, a member of the Sisters of Life and author of The Litany of Trust and Jesus, I Trust in You: A 30-Day Personal Retreat. Sister Faustina shares the profound spiritual journey that led her to create The Litany of Trust, born out of a deep personal struggle with understanding and surrendering to God's will. Her story resonates with anyone seeking to strengthen their faith through difficult times and deep trust in God’s plan, even when life doesn't make sense.

Sister Faustina opens up about the moment that transformed her understanding of trust. Through a powerful, raw encounter with Christ in prayer, she came to realize that trust isn’t about receiving clarity or answers, but about surrendering to God's love, even when we don’t fully understand His plan. This moving testimony will invite you into a deeper relationship with God by embracing the mystery of faith and the freedom that comes with trusting Him in every circumstance.

Whether you are familiar with The Litany of Trust or just beginning your faith journey, this episode is full of encouragement and insights for Catholic women, especially those navigating midlife. Sister Faustina's wisdom is a reminder that God meets us in our weaknesses, elevating us through His tender love, and calling us to trust Him more deeply. This conversation that will help you find hope, healing, and a renewed sense of purpose in your walk with Christ.

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

In this week's show, I explore the powerful influence of news and media on our emotional and spiritual well-being, particularly for Catholic midlife women. My guest, Pamela Hughes shares her insight and wisdom as a former morning radio talk show host in Phoenix. After decades as a journalist, Pamela left it all behind to pursue life coaching. Her experience with what happens behind the scene with reporting and her wisdom as a life coach allows her to share valuable insight on how to consume the news without living in fear or anxiety. 

With the constant bombardment of information, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and anxious. Pamela and I take a closer look at how media outlets often capitalize on fear and division, keeping us in a state of worry. However, there is hope. By staying rooted in your faith, turning to prayer, and focusing on scripture, you can find peace and perspective amid the chaos, especially now as you are bombarded with information on the upcoming presidential election.

We also discuss the importance of conscious consumption, offering practical tips on how to balance media intake with spiritual nourishment. This episode serves as a guide for Catholic women who are looking to protect their peace, remain anchored in their faith, and break free from the anxiety often perpetuated by today's media-driven world.

Click here to learn more about Pamela's coaching and to find her podcast. 

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

In this week's show, I’m joined by Lisa Flood, a wife, mom, and prayer warrior from Louisiana. Lisa shares her powerful testimony of leaving and then returning to the Catholic Church, inspired by the Eucharist on the Feast of Divine Mercy in 2008. We discuss the need for hope and trust in God, especially when facing challenges within our families and personal lives. Lisa emphasizes that true hope isn’t about expecting specific answers to our prayers, but trusting in God’s will and His greater plan for us.

We explore how to maintain hope and trust in difficult situations, acknowledging the struggle of wanting specific outcomes from our prayers. Lisa shares that the virtue of hope is not about having our prayers answered the way we desire, but about trusting that God will act according to His will. I relate to this through my own experience, realizing that it’s easy to become attached to particular outcomes instead of being open to how God might choose to answer our prayers. We need to remember that God’s plans often look different from ours, and we must trust in His timing and wisdom.

We also highlight the importance of community and support among women of faith, as well as the power of prayer, especially through Scripture. Lisa encourages us to “stand on the promises of God” and pray His Word aloud, as it has the power to transform our situations. In a world that values self-reliance, we need to rely on God and the support of our faith communities to help us trust, hope, and surrender to His will.

To register for the Nashville Magnificat meal, click here!

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

In this week's show, we’re delving into a profound topic that resonates deeply with many of us—trust. As Catholic midlife moms, we navigate a landscape marked by significant transitions and challenges. Our daily lives are filled with responsibilities and sometimes unexpected trials, making it crucial for us to lean on God’s loving goodness. The Litany of Trust is a powerful tool that can help us in these moments. It’s a prayer that encourages us to surrender our worries and fears, trusting that God has a plan for each of us, no matter the circumstances.

In midlife, we often look back and reflect on the wisdom gained from past experiences while also looking ahead, striving to make the most of the years to come. Amidst this, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of holding everything together for our families and communities. We may wonder if we’re truly trusting in God’s plan or if we’re trying to handle everything on our own. The Litany of Trust, written by Sister Faustina Maria Pia, is a beautiful reminder that we don’t have to go it alone. It invites us to let go of our fears and self-reliance, embracing instead the trust that God is with us and guiding us.

As we pray through this litany, we ask to be delivered from fears and doubts that block our ability to fully receive God’s love. Each line of the prayer addresses common struggles—whether it’s the need to earn love, anxiety about the future, or reluctance to accept God’s will. Reflecting on these lines can open us to a deeper trust in God’s goodness. I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the Litany of Trust, allowing its words to touch your heart and renew your faith. Remember, you are always loved and supported by God, and He is there to guide you through every challenge you face.

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world. Is this conversation helpful so far?

In this episode, I am diving into a beautiful devotion that speaks to us in a very special way as Catholic midlife women — the devotion to Our Lady of La Leche (Our Lady of the Milk). This devotion may be lesser known, but its message of nurturing, motherhood, and reliance on the Blessed Mother resonates deeply with all of us who are navigating the unique challenges of motherhood in midlife.

In this episode, I share my recent visit to the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche in St. Augustine, Florida. As soon as I stepped on those holy grounds, I felt the peace and presence of God. It was a powerful reminder of how Our Lady stands with us in every season of motherhood — from the first moments of pregnancy, through sleepless nights of nursing, to letting go as our children grow into adulthood.

As Catholic midlife women, we are often in a time of transition — perhaps letting go of children as they become more independent or even welcoming the joy (and challenge!) of grandchildren. I reflect on how Our Lady of La Leche models for us the patient, nurturing love we’re called to offer, not only to our children and grandchildren but to ourselves as well. She nurtures our souls just as she nurtured Christ — emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

I encourage you to consider: where do you need to be nurtured? As mothers, we often pour ourselves out for others, but our hearts also need restoration. Our Lady knows our struggles, whether it’s the difficulty of letting go, the loneliness of an empty nest, or the uncertainty of caring for aging parents. She invites us to bring these challenges to her, to let her lead us to her Son for healing and strength.

I share the rich history of this devotion, tracing it back to the Roman catacombs and the first Catholic settlers in St. Augustine. The story of the tiny wooden cross planted on the shore in 1565, and its magnification over time into a towering beacon of faith, reminds me that our small acts of faith can have an impact far greater than we ever realize. Like the image of Our Lady of La Leche nursing the infant Christ, our seemingly small gestures of love, sacrifice, and prayer can be magnified in God’s plan.

Whether you're in the midst of raising teens, letting go of adult children, or helping to care for grandchildren, this episode is for you. The Blessed Mother is here with us, nurturing our hearts just as she nurtured Christ. I invite you to sit with her, pray with her, and let her intercede for you in all aspects of your life as a mother, wife, and Catholic woman.

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

In this week's show, we discuss the emotional and spiritual journey of letting go as a mother, specifically focusing on the bittersweet transition of releasing children into their independence. Joined by my friend and fellow life coach, Allie Hill, who authored The Girlfriend's Guide to Empty Nesting, we discuss the challenges and rewards of this significant life stage.

The conversation centers on the mixed emotions of pride and sadness that come with watching children step into adulthood. We reflect on our own experiences, highlighting the natural tension between wanting to protect and guide our children while also recognizing the need to step back and allow them to navigate life on their own. Allie shares personal stories from her book, providing practical insights on how to balance the desire to help with the necessity of letting children make their own decisions, even when it means allowing them to fail.

Through heartfelt dialogue, we explore the spiritual dimension of this journey, referencing Ecclesiastes 3 to emphasize the importance of recognizing the different seasons of life. The discussion also touches on the challenges of maintaining communication with adult children, the importance of setting realistic expectations, and the role of faith in navigating these transitions. We hope this show offers comfort, wisdom, and encouragement as moms learn to embrace the changing dynamics of their family relationships.

You can buy Allie's book, The Girlfriend's Guide to Empty Nesting by clicking here.

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.